Four key points to success in managing complex IT projects

Ruan Almeida

PPM Professional and Agile Coach, MBA, PMP, SAFe SP, CSM, ITIL

Published Jul 1, 2016

by Ruan Almeida

Information Technology (IT) is common ground on initiatives of different segments. It is often presented on highly complex projects context, on areas such as mining, steel mill, oil and gas and construction. As IT systems become an important competitive element in many industries, technology projects are getting larger. With that, those systems are touching more parts of the organization and posing a higher risk to the company if something goes wrong. Unfortunately, things often do go wrong - research indicates that large-scale IT projects are likely to delay, come out more expensive than budgeted, and crucially, fail to deliver the expected benefits. Organizations that defy those odds are the ones that master key dimensions that align IT and business value. In order to turn the tide, project management professionals need to be highly qualified. Four elements are crucial to maximize the chances of success:

Go beyond technical skills: Excelling at core project-management practices certainly is essential for the success of any project (and I emphasize the importance of good risk management as a critical success factor). However, in today’s competitive global economy, which is growing quickly and with less predictability, it is simply not enough! Organizations need professionals with additional skills in leadership and business management knowledge - skills that support and sustain its strategic goals. Recent results of the global survey Pulse of the Professional conducted by the Project Management Institute (PMI), shows that professionals who masters those skills have increased the chances of delivering projects that meet the goals and expectations of the organization.

Combine traditional, Agile and lean approaches: Although the term "Agile" has being used in project management in the last decade to refer to a series of specific approaches and practices, organizations now recognize more value when they think about organizational agility in holistic way. A strategic competence, rather than a set of tools and models. The use Agile techniques, such as Scrum, SAFe or DevOps, are not necessarily an indicator of speed or flexibility. It is through a mix or combination of different approaches that is possible to design a model that meets the unique need of the project, organization, industry and market. A hybrid approach allows the team to revamp processes and combine different techniques to deal with own distinct challenges more effectively. Is worth mentioning that Agile approaches and traditional project management can coexist without problems. In addition, companies are learning that Lean Management techniques and IT are complementary in actions related to simplification and process optimization. The application of the "fair and necessary" principle, combined to the opportunity to identify and promote technological innovation, are key factors to eliminate waste and keep focus on the points that represent greater value to the business.

Build effective teams: Large projects can take on a life of their own in an organization. To be effective and efficient, project teams need a common vision, shared team processes, and a high-performance culture. To build a solid team, members should have a common structure that is aligned with the overall organizational goals, instead of individual work-stream goals. A business-to-technology team, aligned with value-delivery targets, will also ensure that all the critical change-management steps are taken. For example, communications with the rest of the organization needs to be clear, regular, and precise. It is recommended that the team is formed by a group of qualified and motivated professionals, consisting of a sustainable mix of internal and external resources.

Lead by example: Basically, this means following up on your responsibilities identified in your plan. For project members to feel confident in you, they must see you as someone who follows through, is available and helpful, and who has a positive attitude. Lead your team by example, and they will respond accordingly.